Research and Reflection

Over the past 15 weeks, the word research has developed a whole new meaning. Being able to explore different disciplines has shown me that really any kind of observation can be used as research, as long as it is warranted within the field that is pertains to. We base our research on proof, but proof and knowing within the sciences for example is defined much differently within the arts. Research within the sciences is more quantified whereas in the Arts, more qualified. This is just a general rule of thumb, and really any means of research can be justified if it has a pattern, or something new that we can take from it. 

The biggest lesson that I learned from the research presented at SCREE, is that even well developed and planned research does not always guarantee an answer to the main question. It is still very valuable though, because it can help take a step in the right direction. Sometimes, it is not possible to yield results using the method that one starts with, therefore research that does not come to a clear conclusion, can just be a map used to develop more useful research in the future. This is important to keep in mind no matter how effective one believes they're research methods will be initially, because even if it does not point to the answer it is still valuable information to consider when continuing to search for a solution to a problem. All of the people that I spoke with at SCREE began with a problem that they were passionate about fixing, and depending on their discipline they put together already known research with their own to produce a sound conclusion or answer. 

Going forward, my goal is to always begin earlier than I believe necessary. Over the course of this class I have revised endlessly and although my work has most definitely improved, there is always something more that can be done. This lesson applies to all of my courses, but especially my capstone because it is such a big undertaking. I am glad that we began thinking about it now, because going through this process has already made it much less daunting. If I can carry this lesson forward and continue to revise my ideas for my capstone, I believe that I will get the most out of my time and have a new base of knowledge to carry forward in my teaching career. 

Multimedia and the Habits of the Mind

To begin, here is my multimedia project from Monday: https://domag1ka.makes.org/popcorn/2wae

 There seems to be some glitches, but this was the best I could do in 30 minutes. Overall I thought it was an awesome tool that I would consider using again!

When it comes to multimedia, the Habits of the Mind that are most fitting in my eyes at the moment are flexibility and creativity. Flexibility will have to play a big role in this project for me, because all of my life I have been used to working with simple tools such as Word and PowerPoint to present my ideas. I am excited to push myself, and use more technologically savvy programs that can portray my ideas and overall thesis in a more impactful way. Along with this idea comes creativity. There are many different outlets to choose from in regards to multimedia, and choosing the right one(s) could really enhance the overall understanding of my topic to a wider ranging audience.

I know that one of the biggest challenges in multimedia composing, beyond the logistical challenges, will be choosing the correct medium for my audience. Certain tools such as blogs may come off as more 'casual,' topics that reach out to younger generations, whereas a well put together film could reach many. The hardest thing will be to determine WHO exactly I need to talk to, and which modes of communication will be best fit for that.

I really have not nailed down a solid idea quite yet, but I definitely want to incorporate video and movement and/or narration in my project. I need to pull out all the stops if I want to get people excited about Math.